James Kearney was born in Ireland and immigrated to the United States. He was commissioned from the District of Columbia as a 3rd Lt., in the 5th Infantry, on Apr. 11, 1813 followed by promotions to 2nd Lt., June 1, 1814; 1st Lt Aug. 13, 1814; Capt, Assistant Topographical Engineer, Apr. 12, 1813; and was honorably discharged, June 15, 1815. He was reinstated as Major, Topographical Engineers, Apr. 29, 1816; promoted to Brevet Lt. Col., Topographical Engineers, Apr. 29, 1826, for ten years faithful service in one grade; and Lt. Col., Topographical Engineers, July 7, 1838. His brother, Dr. John Kearney, a surgeon for the US Navy, was an early member of James Hoban's Washington Artillery. This was one of Washington City's first volunteer militia companies and was largely Irish. James Kearney helped Hoban organize the Union Fire Company in 1808 and afterward served as secretary of the Sons of Erin. He retired from the Army Sept. 9, 1861 and died Jan. 10, 1862, in Washington D.C.
From the description of Kearney, James, d. 1862 (U.S. National Archives and Records Administration). naId: 10573044
